Does full synthetic oil need a special filter?
In most cases, you don’t need a filter designed specifically for synthetic oil. Using the filter recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer or a high-quality aftermarket filter that meets the same specifications is sufficient. However, certain situations—like extended drain intervals or high-performance engines—may warrant a higher-efficiency or OEM-equivalent filter.
How oil filters work with different oils
Oil filters are designed to remove contaminants from engine oil, whether conventional or synthetic. Synthetic oil is typically more stable and capable of longer usage between changes, but it does not change the fundamental requirement to use a filter that fits the engine and meets the manufacturer’s standards. The filter’s job is the same: keep particulates and contaminants out of the engine while maintaining proper oil flow and pressure.
What to know about replacement filters
Here are the key considerations when choosing a filter for synthetic oil:
- Stick to OEM or OEM-equivalent filters that match the engine’s thread size, gasket, and mounting configuration.
- Choose a filter with the appropriate filtration efficiency and flow characteristics, especially if you plan extended drain intervals.
- Consider the filter style compatible with your engine (canister vs cartridge) and ensure your oil change kit includes the correct parts.
- Use a new gasket/O-ring and follow torque specifications to avoid leaks and pressure loss.
These considerations ensure the filter and oil work together to maximize protection and performance, regardless of the oil type.
Common scenarios and recommendations
In everyday use, most drivers can rely on the same filters used for conventional oil as long as they meet the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. Some nuances may apply for extended drain intervals, performance engines, or warranty-covered vehicles.
- Extended drain intervals: If you run longer intervals on synthetic oil, choose a high-quality filter rated for extended service and ensure the oil manufacturer supports the drain interval with the filter.
- Performance and high-mileage engines: Some high-performance or high-mileage oils are paired with specific filters to maintain cleanliness under higher stresses.
- Warranty considerations: For vehicles with factory warranties, use OEM or OEM-equivalent filters to avoid potential warranty issues.
- Installation best practices: Always replace the filter at oil changes, lubricate the gasket with fresh oil, and torque to the manufacturer’s specification.
In short, while synthetic oil doesn't require a special filter, following the manufacturer's recommendations ensures compatibility and preserves warranty coverage.
Bottom line
Bottom line: Full synthetic oil does not mandate a special filter. Use the filter your manufacturer calls for, or a high-quality aftermarket equivalent that meets that spec, and consider higher-efficiency or extended-drain filters if you’re planning longer intervals or if your vehicle has a demanding engine.
Summary
The oil and the filter are a paired system, and synthetic oil doesn’t change the basic rule: you should filter your oil with a filter designed to match your engine’s requirements. Choose a reputable filter, replace the gasket, and adhere to service intervals. By following OEM specifications, you’ll optimize protection for your engine, whether you run conventional or full synthetic oil.
Can you use a regular oil filter with full synthetic oil?
Yes, you can use a regular oil filter with synthetic oil, as standard filters are designed to work with all engine oils. However, if you plan to use the extended life of synthetic oil with longer oil change intervals, you should ideally use a synthetic or extended-life filter, as a regular filter may not last as long as the oil. Using an standard filter with a long synthetic oil change interval may require you to change the filter midway through the interval.
When a regular filter is acceptable
- If you are changing your oil at the same frequency as you would with conventional oil, a standard filter is perfectly fine.
- Standard filters are made with a general-purpose media that effectively traps particles from both conventional and synthetic oils.
When an extended-life filter is beneficial
- If you are taking advantage of synthetic oil's ability to last longer between changes (e.g., 10,000 miles or more).
- A synthetic or extended-life filter is designed to handle longer intervals and has a greater capacity for holding contaminants without losing performance or structural integrity.
- If you use a standard filter with extended oil change intervals, it could become saturated with contaminants, which can reduce oil flow and compromise engine protection.
What is the difference between conventional and synthetic filters?
Like the filter media, they're designed to last longer. Finally, some synthetic filters actually have larger (typically longer) bodies than conventional filters, which means they have more capacity. Because of these factors, some synthetic oil filters have service lives of anywhere from 7,000 to 25,000 miles.
What oil filter to use with full synthetic oil?
One of the best oil filters for synthetic oil is the STP Extended Life Oil Filter. It might not look unique, but why should it when it's stuffed under the hood out of sight?
Should I use a synthetic oil filter?
You don't need a synthetic oil filter with synthetic oil, but it is highly recommended because a synthetic filter is designed to last longer and filter more efficiently, matching the extended lifespan of the oil. Using a standard filter with synthetic oil can lead to it becoming saturated with contaminants and failing before the oil is due for a change, potentially damaging your engine.
Why a synthetic filter is better with synthetic oil
- Extended life: Synthetic oil can last much longer than conventional oil. Synthetic filters are engineered with materials and designs that can withstand these longer service intervals without a loss of performance or structure.
- Better filtration: Synthetic filter media is better at trapping smaller contaminants and has a higher capacity to hold them over time, ensuring the oil stays cleaner for longer.
- Engine protection: Pairing a synthetic filter with synthetic oil ensures that the filter will not become a weak link. If you use a standard filter, it may clog or fail before the oil change is complete, sending unfiltered oil through the engine and defeating the purpose of using synthetic oil.
What to do
- Use a synthetic filter if you use synthetic oil: To get the full benefit of synthetic oil and extend protection for your engine, choose a filter designed for extended life.
- Check your owner's manual: Consult your car's owner's manual to confirm the recommended type of oil and filter for your specific vehicle. Some older vehicles might not benefit as much from synthetic oil.
